Portret van Jan Roothaan 1842 - 1887

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this print of Jan Roothaan, whose somber visage emerges through the mezzotint technique. Roothaan's clerical collar and dark robe speak of his religious devotion, symbols immediately recognizable within the visual language of the church. These stark garments echo across centuries, from the simple robes of early Christian monks to the elaborate vestments of Renaissance popes. Such attire transcends mere fashion; it embodies a commitment to spiritual life, a severing of ties with the material world. We see echoes of this symbolism in countless portraits of religious figures across various cultures. The visual representation of faith, constantly evolving yet perpetually linked to its origins. This triggers deep-seated emotional responses, connecting us to a shared human quest for meaning.